For Example

IUCD Location Scan

Sometimes it is necessary to check on the location of your IUCD or contraceptive implant to ensure that it is in the correct position. We can do this with a simple ultrasound scan, which will reveal where the IUCD is and whether there are any problems with it.

What are the indications or reasons for having the IUCD location scan?

Your IUCD will only be able to prevent you from getting pregnant if it is properly fitted. You should arrange an IUCD location scan to check the device if:

You or your doctor aren’t able to feel the strings of the IUCD, which should pass through your cervix into the top of your vagina. Your doctor will show you how to check the strings when you have the IUCD fitted.

There were any issues with the insertion and your doctor wants to check that the IUCD has been fitted correctly.

You have a condition such as fibroids that might have interfered with the insertion.

You don’t think the IUCD is working because you aren’t experiencing the expected effects or you think you might be pregnant.

You’re experiencing symptoms such as pain or bleeding that could be due to a misplaced IUCD.

How is the scan done?

The IUCD location scan is a trans-vaginal ultrasound. A thin ultrasound probe will be inserted a short way into your vagina so we can look at your cervix and uterus. If we can’t find the IUCD with the internal scan, we may try a trans-abdominal ultrasound. It doesn’t provide such detailed pictures, but it can help us to detect IUCDs that have travelled a long way from their intended position.

What preparation is required?

You should empty your bladder just before having a trans-vaginal scan

Wear clothes that are easy to remove from your lower half for the internal scan

What can this scan detect?

During the IUCD location scan we will check:

The location of the device, even if it has moved out of place

The position of the device if it has turned around

The position of the strings, which may be needed to remove the device

For any issues such as tears or bleeding that could have been caused by the IUCD if it has moved

If the IUCD has moved out of place, the ultrasound pictures will help if it needs to be removed. We will usually be able to take the IUCD out if there is a problem. It can then be replaced with a new device.

Is it easy to make an appointment?

We can easily arrange an appointment at short notice if you are having problems with your IUCD. We can perform scans on weekends or evenings if necessary. It’s important not to delay if you suspect that your contraceptive implant isn’t working. You should also avoid having sex or use another form of contraception until you know that you are protected.

What happens after the scan?

If the scan confirms that your IUCD is correctly fitted, you won’t need to do anything else until you decide to have it removed. However, if the IUCD location scan shows that there is a problem, you may need to have the device removed right away.

It is sometimes possible to leave the IUCD in place if it is still working and safe to do so. If this isn’t safe, we may be able to use instruments and the information from the ultrasound scan to remove the IUCD. Sometimes it will be necessary to remove the IUCD surgically, which would require a general anaesthetic. We can provide a full report on the IUCD location scan to help your gynaecologist with this.

Once the IUCD has been removed, you will need to decide if you want another one fitted or to choose another form of contraception. If you have another IUCD put in place, we can check that it has been fitted correctly with another IUCD location scan.

Read Our Reviews

Thank you to all our patients for considering coming to our clinic.
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' Professional and reassuring '
The sonographer was ready as soon as I arrived, and she was extremely calming, personable and professional. The scan and blood test where efficient without feeling rushed and all very easy. These appointments can feel uneasy and make you feel anxious but I felt reassured and in professional hands the whole time

Helen Campbell

I saw Kate throughout my first pregnancy and am now doing so again with my second. She is absolutely amazing, she explains everything really clearly, and has answered all sorts of bizarre questions and worries I have had. On top of being clinically excellent she is also just the loveliest person and always a pleasure to see.

Sarah Elliott

We had the harmony test with the Birth Company and had a reassurance scan with sonographer Kirsty McGarry who was absolutely lovely and really put our minds at rest. We had been scared by our NHS dating scan and left feeling like there was something wrong. We explained the situation and was treated very professionally and with good care. Also speedy appointments also as I had phone in the morning and got an appointment by afternoon. So thankful.

Ashley and Tom

Really friendly, efficient service. Great experience overall. Had the Panorama. My appointment was with Kate who was absolutely fantastic. The results came really quickly. Have a comparison with private healthcare elsewhere and must say that The Birth Company was just how I would like to be treated when I pay for medical services - attentively, calmly, friendly, in a pleasant environment that doesn't look like hospital. Top marks!

Anna

' Efficient, friendly and always on hand to provide last minute appointments '
The Birth Company has been excellent, providing timely scans and blood tests during my IVF treatment abroad. Staff are always friendly and extremely efficient. I would highly recommend coming here.

Hannah Murphy

' Professional and friendly '
When I first contacted the Birth Company I spoke to Danielle. She was fantastic. She went above & beyond to put me at easy & make the journey from Kent as stress free as possible. Every staff member that myself and my husband have come into contact with have been approachable, professional and friendly. Kate scanned me the first time and put me completely at easy. Lisa on reception is professional and very approachable. Highly recommended

Lyndsey Dilla

' Highly recommended '
Donald was so lovely! I was so nervous as I have a bad history and he was super quick and confirmed my baby's heartbeat as quickly as he could. He spent time showing me the baby and the anatomy and it was the best money I have ever spent! The reception girls were lovely too - considering they deal with babies day in day out they were super excited for me! Thank you so much one and all! If only I lived in London and could have all my scans with you!